THE Education Ministry is mulling to review and upgrade the examination system in schools to ensure that students have the necessary qualities for tertiary education after secondary school.

Education Minister Maszlee Malik said save students time when they enrol into universities.

Currently, secondary school students sit for their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) before they can apply to pre-university courses such as Sijil Pelajaran Tinggi Malaysia (STPM) or matriculation course or diplomas.

He cited the education systems in other countries, where students can enter universities after 12 years of school.

“For Malaysia, we would be in school for 11 years and another additional two years before we can enrol into universities.

“They only need 12 years in total. Why? Because of their education system and their examination, which has higher value and can be used in other countries,” he said at a forum organised by Sinar Harian in Shah Alam today.

The Simpang Renggam MP also said another factor that aided the system is the fact that their schooling calendar begins in September.

Schools in Malaysia commence their studies in January after weeks of holidays in December.

“This is the research we will do to ensure our high school graduates will be recognised internationally,” he added.

He also hoped for Malaysia to be the focal point for students in the region to further their studies.

Earlier today, the two-hour forum moderated by Johan Jaafar was filled with teachers and students from all levels.

Maszlee had touched on various topics such as the usage of Bahasa Malaysia in schools, a change in school uniform as well as urging local academics to publish more academic journals, among others. – July 19, 2018.